The 24-year-old is a food scientist working in research and development for a large multi-national. She shares why she entered this year’s pageant.
There’s more to Mahlangu than meets the eye. She is also a social entrepreneur and owns a community bakery in Soshanguve. She loves the feeling of adrenaline and adventure and enjoys exploring new hiking routes, running and exercising. She says people would be surprised to learn that she was once an aspiring professional soccer player, represented Gauteng and went to a sports school in hopes of playing for Banyana Banyana! She chats to us about entering Miss South Africa 2020
How did you feel when you were told you were a Top 10?
I was at work when I found out and had to keep my cool to not give it all away. It really felt unreal! This is a life- transforming opportunity and with every step closer to achieving it, the magnitude of the platform leaves me amazed.
Did you celebrate?
I unfortunately was unable to celebrate because of lockdown restrictions and living away from family. I did, however, have a nice dinner with my little sister and one of my friends.
What have you learnt about yourself since you started this journey?
Since finding out that I made the top 10 I have gotten an opportunity to spend time with the other finalists and getting to know them has reinforced my passion for forming collaborative relationships with other young people who want to build our communities. I am looking forward to working with them past the pageant.
What are the initiatives you will be supporting?
I am passionate about social entrepreneurship. I describe it as an idea that says purpose and profit do not have to be mutually exclusive. It allows the youth and women to identify the social issues facing their respective communities and encourages them to come up with self-sustaining solutions to those issues through entrepreneurship. This will allow us to combat social issues and fight poverty and unemployment. This is an idea I practice and advocate for.
Is there anything touching that has happened since you were named a Miss South Africa contender?
I am not the most socially connected person, but this has changed drastically since I entered Miss SA. Having old school mates, distant family and strangers reach out to show their support has been encouraging and uplifting.
What has been your favourite part of the process so far?
The interview is my most memorable part. It allowed me to share my ideas and passion. The judges got to see who I really am. It was nerve-wracking, but it was the biggest step towards reaching my goals.
Why should people follow the remainder of your journey and the Miss South Africa pageant in October?
Miss SA 2020 will be a brand ambassador for our country so I think it is important for everyone to know her and understand what she stands for. This will also allow everyone to contribute constructively to ensure she represents us all in the best way.
For more, visit:
- https://www.misssa.co.za
- Facebook: com/MsSouthAfrica
- Twitter: @Official_MissSA
- Instagram: @official_misssa
- YouTube: com/TheMissSAPageant
